Copenhagen Arena, Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen Arena expected by 2015

Team led by 3XN Architects win the chance to build the ambitious Copenhagen Arena

The winners of the design competition for the new Copenhagen Arena in Denmark are 3XN, HKS Architects, Arup, ME Engineers and Planit, succeeding against such architectural figures as C. F Møller, Grimshaw, Arup, Niras, Foster + Partners, and Arkitektfirmaet 78 to create the new structure. Designed to hold between 12,500 and 15,000 spectators, the Arena will be situated in the Ørestad-area of Denmark’s capital, and is expected to be completed by autumn 2015.

The proposed Arena hopes to attract spectators worldwide, with adjusting interiors with seating which will accommodate concerts and sports events-goers with optimum viewing positions. The area outside of the arena will be utilised for various purposes, Partner and Creative Director of 3XN, Kim Herforth Nielsen says: "Our ambition was to create an arena, that besides from hosting a range of amazing sporting and musical events would also be a catalyst for various local activities for the enjoyment of residents and visitors. Therefore, the areas surrounding the arena are designed to be used for recreational purposes, while the public foyer easily can host markets or exhibitions. In this way, the arena is also a cultural centre".

The design of the Arena is divided into a plinth and a top. There are a number of spaces and niches within the plinth to be used for recreational purposes and to help regulate the movements of many spectators. The top has a semi-transparent facade, where terracotta waves are cast on the building in a circular motion. The glass between the terracotta fins makes the building appear open and accessible, while the foyer areas receive natural light.